Fashion commentator Romane Delvallee agrees: “Fashion often reflects what’s happening in society, and the exploration of gender and personal identity is on the rise,” she says. “Both men and women seem to want to explore this and find something empowering in it.”
Social media is a key driver. “TikTok, fan cams and edits really have shifted our perceptions, influences and ideas regarding men’s fashion and how it’s not just about suits anymore,” says stylist and fashion historian Kim Russell. “Stans are so good at their job and shifting the mainstream group mentality. You have regular hetero-cis men open to the idea of carrying a handbag. That’s really powerful. It’s constantly on our feeds being reposted and positively encouraged.” Now, she says, women are being influenced by menswear like never before — and vice versa.
“All of these Hollywood heartthrobs…
